Green Canyon Dam
Key Takeaway
Green Canyon Dam is classified as high hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1972 and is 54 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 89 ft (taller than 88% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 1,850 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 6.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Drainage Area | 31 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 52,400 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1972 (54 years old) |
| NID ID | NM00232 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
CABALLO SOIL & WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT
Local Government
Nearby Dams
County Line Detention Dam
Sierra, NM
High Hazard 32 ftKight Flood Retard Dam
Doña Ana, NM
High Hazard 34 ftCaballo Arroyo Dam No. 2
Doña Ana, NM
High Hazard 23 ftHatch Valley Arroyo Dam No. 6
Doña Ana, NM
High Hazard 46 ftCaballo Arroyo Dam No. 1
Sierra, NM
High Hazard 28 ftPercha Diversion
Sierra, NM
Low Hazard 19 ftMclead Flood Control Dam
Doña Ana, NM
High Hazard 18 ftSibley Green Site 5
Sierra, NM
High Hazard 27 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Green Canyon Dam?
Green Canyon Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Green Canyon Dam?
Green Canyon Dam is owned by CABALLO SOIL & WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Green Canyon Dam built?
Green Canyon Dam was completed in 1972, making it 54 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Green Canyon Dam?
Green Canyon Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Green Canyon Dam?
Green Canyon Dam has a dam height of 89 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Green Canyon Dam last inspected?
Green Canyon Dam was last inspected on June 2, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.